The electronic media has undoubtedly played a large part in introducing Imran Khan as a political option. On some talk shows, Imran is a regular, appearing at least a couple of times every month. However, the frequent appearances notwithstanding, the PTI still remains an enigma in the minds of many viewers. With a few exceptions, notably an excellent “Hard Talk”- style interview conducted by Iftikhar Ahmad on “Jawab Deyh” (October 2, 2011), most talk show hosts end up chit-chatting drawing room style with Imran, allowing him to talk big on generalisations but omitting to grill him on any specific plans.

In this context, let’s begin with Imran’s view on Pakistan-US relations. As Najam Sethi rightly pointed out in his show, how is Imran’s “hum dosti chahte hain, ghulami nahin” different from Ayub Khan’s ‘friends not masters’ theory? In other words, four decades on, the same grandiose rhetoric may appeal but be just as difficult to achieve. Could the fact that Pakistan was never non-aligned but squarely in the American camp have something to do with this difficulty? How possible is it for us to extricate ourselves from this historic alignment and yet avoid economic ramifications? Is it not true that when the Americans invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, they simply asked us ‘are you with us or against us’ and no third option was given? Is it also not true that Americans, high on hubris, threatened ‘to bomb Pakistan into the Stone Age’ were we to decide we were not with them? These are some of the questions I would like to see Imran answer specifically on television instead of lecturing on how well he knows western psyche.

Shortly after his successful Lahore rally, Imran appeared on Nasim Zehra’s “Policy Matters” (November 5, 2011). To the anchor’s credit, she had researched Imran’s declaration of assets, but when she questioned him on the discrepancy between the present market value of Imran’s assets and the far lower purchase value disclosed on the return, he dismissed her question altogether, choosing to lecture us instead on accounting principles, Imran-style. As the conversation progressed to his China trip, the fluffiness of Imran’s responses became even more apparent. When he spoke of China pulling millions out of poverty, Ms Zehra agreed, as would most of us, that this is an enormous accomplishment. But there were no follow-up questions when Imran claimed that Pakistan could use the Chinese model. How, I wondered, would Pakistan apply the Chinese model? China has certainly made giant economic strides but would these have been possible without its strict one-child policy? Hasn’t China also severely curbed religious practice and democracy? Are these measures possible, or even advisable, in Pakistan?

Reading the blogs written primarily by the 20-something crowd taken in by Imran, I understand the yearning for change and appreciate our youth’s desire to be a part of the political process in order to make Pakistan a more just and prosperous place, but what disappoints me is the lack of research and historical perspective in trying to achieve this noble objective. Most blogs focused on the feel-good factor of Imran’s rally. Nationalistic pride, a street party with rock bands and a political rally where families can participate are all well and good but does the rhetoric match up to actions?

Several lines were written on Imran’s acknowledgement of women and minority rights. But why is it then that Imran refused to support the Women Protection Bill when it was presented in parliament in 2006? Isn’t a politician’s voting record a more accurate indicator of his leanings than mere rhetoric? The Women Protection Bill sought to provide relief to those women who had been raped but languished in jails for years as the Hudood Ordinance promulgated under General Zia ulHaq failed to distinguish between rape and adultery. And if Imran is in fact concerned about minorities, why would he congregate his dharna in April of this year at the controversial Akora Khattak madrassa, a madrassa that has been known to propagate anti-Shia hate literature?

PTI members say that in both these cases, i.e., refusal to support the Women Protection Bill and insistence on congregating at the Akora Khattak madrassa, there was opposition from within the party, but it was overruled by Imran. This then brings me to the question of the PTI’s internal structure. Isn’t one of the main problems with our existing democratic parties the fact that they are too tightly run by the bosses? If the PTI is indeed a party of change then why can’t it exhibit that change internally before it vows to do so countrywide?

On the contrary, PTI’s chief strategy appears to be one of glorifying Imran’s personality. ‘Join Imran’, not ‘join PTI’ is what I hear from many of his supporters. When asked to name 10-odd people who would help him reform Pakistan, Imran is at pains to even name one. Is Imran’s strategy simply to await bigwig turncoats rather than lure competent people who may steal some of his thunder? After all, an opportunistic politician may switch sides and grovel provided his/her personal interests are better served but those who wish to make a difference will join the PTI only if they are given a say in running its affairs.

When the present lot of PTI representatives appear on talk shows, I must say with regret that they often seem less impressive and learned than their counterparts in the more established parties. A post-rally “Capital Talk” (October 31, 2011) that featured, among others, Mian Mehmood Rashid of the PTI, left me thinking that though Mr Rashid started off well, his arguments, particularly on terrorism, were no match for the PPP’s Faisal Raza Abidi. Similarly, watching “Kal Tak” ( October 26, 2011), it was telling that neither Nabeel Gabol (PPP) nor Shireen Mazari (PTI) understood the concept of food security and only Ahsan Iqbal (PML-N) talked about it intelligently. As a viewer, therefore, I would like to regularly see PTI members, other than Imran Khan, debating politicians of other parties on television so that there is a tangible basis of comparison. Imran Khan, too, should debate all other party leaders so that voters are able to compare party manifestos, specific plans and leadership acumen.

You have nicely shown up the weaknesses of Imran and the PTI. What I feel you have missed is their strength which flows from the colossal weaknesses, apparent to the people, of Zardari’s PPP and the Nawaz PML-N

why dont u have an interview with IK and ask exact and to the point questions and demand ur answers same is with Najam Sethi, ur newspaper , channel or Najam Sethi never asked any questions niether invited him.

‘a madrassa that has been known to propagate anti-Shia hate literature?’

The Akora Khattak madrassa (Darul Uloom Haqqannia, named after its founder the God-fearing Maulana Abdul Haq) has nothing to do with anti-Shia literature or with anti-Shia anything. It is more well known for producing Afghani Taliban rank and file and many of its top cadre have graduated from this institute.
Please do some research before blurting out any one. Recommend

Not another ‘Imran doesnt give specifics’ article. Let me give give you some specifics: Shaukat Khanum Hospital and NAMAL. Education and health are amongst the largest problems (along with terrorism) facing our country – Imran Khan has taken personal leadership in both and delivered much more than any other politician even thought/claimed of doing (even in their fib riddren speeches). Also – how can the PTI block the women’s bill in the NA (which btw has already been passed) if they have no one in the national assembly?? The writer obviously needs to do her research before giving her opinion. Recommend

I support Imran Khan on many issues. But I am not a die-hard fan. And I must say that is a refreshing and excellent analysis. I have heard Ehsan Iqbal speak, and he is a very good debator, having a lot of knowledge.

But regarding the Akora Khattak madressa, I think Nazimuddin is correct. And more research is needed.

PTI must be made democratic, and must formulate its policy, instead of becoming cults, like Bhutto, or family, like Sharifs. In this light, they could learn a lesson or two, ironically from the Jamaat-e-Islami, which is rightly the most democratic party of Pakistan.

PTI followers must learn that we cannot reject the others right of constructive criticism.

Why is it that all these so called intellectuals have started targeting PTI and IK. Ms Khan’s talks about how well Ahsan Iqbal (don of narowal) spoke about food security but didnt question the fact that his party has been in power in punjab for the last 3.5 years and hasnt done anything to address this issue.The sugar barons and zaminder mafia that’s dominates PMLN are the people who create artificial food shortages to hike up prices, these people use influence to control flood plains and dykes and will flood villages to save ther own land.

Well said. IKs leadersip quality talks for it self by boasting shah mahmood qureshi will join tereek. It was a blunder. It spilled the beans on shah mahmoods suspence speech on 27th. if shah joins pmln,sorry to say pti suffer a hugh blow.

Quote
To the anchor’s credit, she had researched Imran’s declaration of assets, but when she questioned him on the discrepancy between the present market value of Imran’s assets and the far lower purchase value disclosed on the return, he dismissed her question altogether, choosing to lecture us instead on accounting principles, Imran-style.
Unquote

I will only address the issue regarding asset valuation. It is indeed Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) to value assets on the basis of Historical Cost not Fair Market Value (FMV). The reason is anchored on a sound economic principle that prevents taxpayers from paying taxes on unrealized value, as there would be no realized cash to discharge the implied increment. A mere disclosure of the FMV would be a desirable and sufficient disclosure.

So IK was correct in lecturing the interviewer on Accounting Principles, and also a very basic one I may add!!

how about Nawaz sharif and Zardari??? shouldn’t they come on tv show with Imran Khan?? Imran Khan has asked number of times that he is ready to face Nawaz sharif and Zardari….Now the author is trying to prove us that Zardari and Nawaz Sharif are better than Imran Khan???!!!! thank you for sharing your opinion…but sorry we don’t buy your arguments..!!! we still love Imran Khan….my next vote is for PTI…!!Recommend

so if Zardari and Sharifs are incompetent that means Imran is competent? what a silly argument.
why are Imran supporters not accepting the fact that not every person or journalist is going to comment in their favour, people are going to flag up his faults like they do with other leaders, he is no saint. People should be more tolerant

@rizwan:
Thankyou Ayesha Ijaz Khan for dissection a small part of politics of Mr Imran Khan. One of the bloggers quoted Mr Khan as ” I Khan” and in fact his all political whims and wishes start and ends at “I” . whereever “I” leads it only serves only “Is”. Mr Imran Khan is famous to veto others suggestions and try to prevail without justification. Nobody want to endorse the politics of Personality cult in Pakistan as well as nobody should be biased about the work done by any politician. Its time for all political parties and new groups to start a democratic process within and view and taste its results, Without collective wisdom nobody will succeed anywhere in the world.

@Mazhar ul Islam:
Mr Imran Khan presented himself before the last dictator of Pakistan General Pervez Mushraf and chosen to be *Chief Polling Agent in refrrendum, the General arranged to legitimize his rule over Pakistan. If a politician-in-making have such tendencies how one can rely on his coming gestures.? At start of his doings he is questionable !

Ayesha,
I am not in my 20s, have participated in 1986 Benazir Bhutto’s Lahore rally, have been a passionate supporter of PPP considering it a party which can bring a change in the life of ordinary people. Now in my 40s, when i recollect the evenings & days spent in canvassing, supporting PPP, sadly a sense of waste overpowers me because of the way they have plundered the national resources, bankrupted the country, devastated all the institutions, exploited the poor for their personal motives & defamed the country globally.

Baseless criticism & a concerted campaign to malign PTI or Mr. Khan will leave us with no choice, the crooks whose political bickerings and mutual bickerings, we are sick of!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! please leave us with this LAST HOPE (PTI), we salute your intellectual flights

I am a PTI supporter but the questions raised are pertinent. May be PTI should issue a point-by-point rebuttal. I am happy that the discrepancies/issues in PTI/IK postion are being pointed out. Its time to address them in a civilized manner not to ‘kill the messenger’. This will help us become a better party compared to others.

If I was a Shia I would be very hesitant to commit my vote to Imran and PTI just for the fact that Imraan chose the madrassah which gave birth to the Taliban movement to voice his politica views and in the process blessing the views of the Taliban.

If anything the Taliban during thier misrule in Afghanistan participated in the practice of genocide against Shias. The take over of Mazar e Sharif has a record of 50,000 Shias being executed in the process for political and religious reasons. If peace ever returns to Afghanistan, I am sure there will be some Afghan Shias with strong enough conviction for the possiblity of getting justice thru the International Court of Justice, who would move the court against Mullah Omer and his associates to be tried for genocide. If Gaddafi could be indicted for genocide, there is no reason Mullah Omer should be able to get away with crimes against humanity.

Absolutely right…
In establishing Imran Khan as a political option, not only media played its role but the pivitol role was played by the establishment.
In this regards, please read more at “Imran and the Establishment” at

We idolize personalities and not ideas. Imran Khan knows this fully well and is not giving any detailed program with timeline and resources. “I am a good clean man and would take care of all your problems”, is the easy way out. Most rightwing leaders repeat this “character thing” against secular liberal parties to get power. They used it in this country against Bill Clinton but failed due to the educated electorate. How can one man’s good character force out all our social, political and economic evils? We have heard this same line for the resoration of CJ. What has changed for the public after his restorations? Put Imran Khan in the seat of PM and the whole country would become angels, just like after CJ! The fake drug making would stop, bribes would cease, education would revolutionize in madarsas, free hospitals would set up, electricity would be plenty and prices would go down, while keeping the large army!

As modern generation of political observers and media marketing student.I have noticed that media is not just to provide information anymore it is works as lobbing machine. in good litrature writter leaves the conclusion to reader, but in todays time, paid writters make sure to leave the conclusion in the mind of rader. all others parties have realized the effect of social media and they will take the game to PTI but they are far behind. keep on creating doubts but the fact is New Generation will take their chance with PTI and Imran khan

Ayesha you pointed out some very important points that ponder many people to think what PTI and Imran khan is all about…in our desperation of change we are expecting too much from Imran whereas in reality he is always unanswerable when it comes to his and PTI manifesto and his policies concerning national n international issues…his planning and policies are vague …lots of confusion prevails in PTI …its a party based on weak grounds nothing concrete and practical not even the charasmatic Imran Khan.

KEEP IT UP!!!
Excellent analysis!!
very eye opening and though provoking
I completely agree tht the gulliable 20 something crowd would do anything to support a new face. they have clearly not research on anything, it just tht when he made pak win the worldcup, he is worshipped since

Thanks for your very insightfull observations. This week’s Newsweek in its US print edition carries an interview with Imran with pretty much similar vague answers that you have highlighted. The Chinese leadship is masterful at hedging their bets, they invited the Jamaat e Islami leader to China for consultation, and off course the Jamaat leadership did not have any qualms about giving their views to the Godless Chinese leadership. Now Just in case Imraan might prove to be leadership material, has made a similar visit and has recieved their blessings.

In my opinion the Chinese model is simply not applicable to Pakistan.

I use to be in Iran before the Iranian revolution, Iran was an autocratic dictatorship before it experienced the revolution, and after the briefest of the experience of an Iranian spring immediately slid into the theocratic dictatorship that it is today. Since the Iranian people had never experienced indvidualtistic freedoms of expression, press and assembly, the imposition of their current theocratic diktat was accepted by the majority of iranians without a whimper.

Pakistan has on the other hand unlike the Chinese people experienced a free press and individual freedoms right from its very coming into existence, long periods of military dictatorships have never managed to completly take away the Pakistani love for these personal freedoms. The Chinese model where personal freedom is sacrificed for the communal good is just not applicable to the case of Pakistani love for freedom.

yes, because other “inquilabi” leaders such as Altaf hussain, don’t just sing for us and make awkward noises and faces, instead they come up with detailed plans everytime they speak. you really dont seem to understand anything Khan says…probably because you are so bent on bashing him…which is fine…you just wont be able to convert anyone….since you fail to give another option.

We have lost hope in everyother party! If we can give zardari a chance then we agree to the fact that we definitely can give Imran khan a chance. I was never into politics! Infact ever since i knew what it was i was quite worried that every single leader made a massive attempt to ruin the country! All i know is that i remember pakistanis unite for one event! That is cricket! Which makes us pretty much a nation! 1992 i was 2 years old but i was told about the passion the hope every one had and how we became a nation! Oh let me recall! The captain of the team was mr. Imran khan himself! I am not saying cricket has anything to do with politics! But he surely made us a nation! I am not quite aware of the facts! And i think imran khan keeps our hopes a bit too high! But this doesnt make me forget the love i have for my country! I mean come on we gave zardari a chance! I ask u who else would you gove a chance if not imran khan! We cant trust any of our leaders but we deserve to give one man who is aiming to make us a nation again a chance! He is our hope! I cant see my country go in hands on sharif or zardari or who ever

He’s trying to get his agenda to a population that is largely rural, backward with a 40% literacy. Do you expect him to detail complex nuanced policy solutions in these media discussions, which are 100% mass oriented? You live in Britain and even there, politicians routinely resort to generalizations and over-simplification of issues to get their agenda through. A very recent example is the various wars they fight and the many wars to come. Wake up ma’am before it’s too late.

It’s sort of funny how so many of Imran Khan’s supporters actually drive people away from PTI every single time they form their “victim squad” and lash out on things like this. I don’t see anyone calling them biased for jumping on every other article about a different politician than Imran Khan and jumping up and down for attention. They make PTI look like a joke. The biggest preachers of change are only interested in it as long as it’s anyone else but them and PTI.

I probably wouldn’t have as bad of an opinion of PTI if it wasn’t for the supporters style on here. They don’t make people want to see PTI win, they make people want PTI to lose just out of spite towards the supporters so they’ll come back to reality once their foot gets shoved down their throat.

Ms.Ayesha must be in love with the ruling and opposition parties and hence feels compelled to pick on Imran Khan over trivia..For millions of us drowned here in blatant corruption,lawlessness,collapsing economy,no power, no gas,no jobs,zero value of human life,no hope,no reason to live,we have full faith in Imran Khan that with his proven honesty,determination,sincerity and intelligence he will do his utmost to fullfil our hopes and dreams.

Im not PTI, but the amount of scrutiny IK is facing, its unimaginable. No one challenges others leaders at this scale but they want perfectionism from IK, and if he is not perfect they suggest to write him off, this us shameful. Only 10% of change in governance and corruption could save pakistan more than Rs200Billion. Do the math if he can fix the system to even 30,40,50 or 60% if not 100%. And these columnists who are grilling him to knees should vote for status quo.

i am really impressed what u have mentioned here because i my self thought of some of these questions. People who are voting for Imran Khan just wait and see what one of the worst mistake they will commit. i am not a supporter of PPP or PML N or any other party. i was the one who fortunately worked for imran’s hospital but it does not mean that i will approve of his every step. PTI has close ties with banned organization SSP. the flags of this banned organization even were seen in the rally. moulana ludhianvi the chief of jammat ahlesunnat ” another name for SSP ” has said they will support PTI in some cities of punjab and their candidates will step down in favour of PTI…. just search it on Google and Youtue and see the proof by yourself. What does this show ??…ask yourself…Imran was a great champion player but he has got no vision… he has got no specific direction… mark my words ..the turm oil pakistan is right now will not end quite easily. atleast i don’t see anyone in just one term can solve the issues of pakistan. Pakistan needs a revolution and a revolutionary leader, there are revolutionary people in Pakistan but they will be put to death if they will go for it. Our country will only achieve success when every one of us will feel that revolution is the need of the time. PLEASE DON’T ELECT THE WORST POSSIBLE CHOICE JUST IN THE NAME OF CHANGE…

I must congratulate the author on coming up with a fine article. However, one of the criticism quoted in this article does confuse me a little. You claim that in some of the talk shows, representatives from PML-N or PPPP impressed you more than PTI representatives. What have these representatives actually done to implement their fine claims? Secondly, if PTI recruits one of these knowledgeable candidates, you lot will be the first to bash PTI for recruiting a ‘tried and tested’ politician. With such critical approach what choice do you people leave PTI with?

What’s wrong with “I Khan”?
Look at it from Imran Khan’s point of view: he wanted to be a world class cricketer and he was told that he was not as good as others. Now we know who turned out to be right.
He wanted to build a cancer hospital with free treatment for poor and he was told by experts that it was not possible. Now we know who prevailed in the end.
The political chapter of his life is still unfolding. He has been telling everyone for quite a while now that people in Pakistan are not mere cattle that they are living thinking human beings & their political consciousness has changed. He was ridiculed and then we know what happened on Oct 30th.
So how wrong is he to posses the self belief that with resolve, determination & hard work one’s goal however difficult, in this case to change Pakistan for good, can be achieved?

This sister, has been writing against Imran Khan for a long time. She seems
to have an unending grudge, against the future Prime Minister, of Pakistan, Inshallah.
How ever it is about time she realizes that the secular, mindset will be replaced in
Pakistan, by proponents of an Islamic welfare state. Imran Khan has worked his way
up in Pakistani politics, and has taken a consistent stance, on vital issues. He is
a sincere Muslim, and I am sure that with the help of Allah Subhana, will change the
fortunes of Pakistan. My duas are for him all the time.

Its not Imrans fault that the price of his land was raised. Imagine if you purchase a land for 1-lac and Musharraf has a farm nearby so he builds roads and infrastructure. Offcource you cannot declare the present price of land and pay tax on that you can hardly afford it.

is the writer serious. Is Nawaz Sharfi , Zardari , chaudry sahib,altaf h discussing policies and ways to solve problems of Pakistan on TV. NO, it would be good to debate policies and programmes, but we all know it is one thing that needs to be debated, Have we tried the corrupt leaders that are available to us ? Yes then the hope of Pakistan need to be placed in not just Imran Khan as an Individual but the idea of sincerety and good governance that any one voting for him and the people that are joining him would expext from his party,

Thanks for at least giving more thought to your analysis than other critics. However, still more unbiased analysis is required. I would have to follow up on other issues. But the issue of property assets, I have seen many people raise it who are not from accounting background and therefore are less likely to be familiar with historical cost vs. fair market value and wealth accounting rules. But nevertheless this issue is raised for the sake of an issue and that’s what is disappointing that writers convince others to make judgement based on “facts” that they themselves are not keenly familiar with. However, your constructive criticism is welcome on other issues and we would like to ensure that PTI closes these gaps for their own and this nation’s betterment.

It is absolutely an exercise in futility trying to figure out the truth in Pakistani politics. It is also exasperating to figure out the thinking of most Pakistanis. Either over the period of decades in Pakistan’s history there has been the total lack of honesty in human relationships, absence of honest opinions, lack of good honest leadership, lack of honest upbringing in most homes, that has resulted in the cynicism and the recycling of myths and conspiracies deluged in untruths floating around. Imran Khan’s political life is now being tossed around by media men whose credibility is questionable. Tales of Imran Khan’s life is being churned out continuously by members of opposition parties. Just imagine if there was no Imran Khan in Pakistan! There would have probably not been the glories of cricket, the hospital, the college and the honest opinion of a man who has revealed his life in books and in his speeches. Which single man who did not inherit vast sums of money, managed to do all what Imran Khan has achieve? Just look at the other dismal politicians vying to get into ruling and guiding the destinies of the millions of Pakistanis. I would like to get an answer from the readers of this paper. The question is: Name me member of the present group of politicians including Zardari, Altaf hussain who would be able to get a job in any government service or private company anywhere in the world with their CV?

@Nazimuddin Khan:
@Saqih:
“how can the PTI block the women’s bill in the NA (which btw has already been passed) if they have no one in the national assembly?? The writer obviously needs to do her research before giving her opinion.”

Perhaps you should read the article more clearly. The author had said that Imran helped to block this bill in 2006 when he WAS in the parliament.

@Nazimuddin Khan:
“The Akora Khattak madrassa has nothing to do with anti-Shia literature or with anti-Shia anything. It is more well known for producing Afghani Taliban rank and file and many of its top cadre have graduated from this institute. Please do some research before blurting out “

It looks like the author HAS done the research and you are the one that needs to do a little more. It is true that this madrassa is well known for producing key Afghan Taliban leader. IT is also true that during the period that Afghan Taliban were ruling Afghanistan, they killed thousands of Shias.

You may say these people are peaceful just like LeJ is. But is unlikely that the Shias would perceive it the same way.

I am a staunch supporter of Imran Khan, but I have to agree with some of the points raised here. I think the best thing Imran can do to answer critics is to formulate a 90 days agenda , one that he would apply when he comes to power. by doing that he can address a lot of the questions being asked about the depth of his policies that he speaks about. But nonetheless, despite this he is still the only politician with ANY SORT of vision for the future.

Ahsan Iqbal has a degree from Wharton, Sartaj Aziz from Harvard, Shahid Khaqan from University of California, Aitzaz Ahsan from Cambridge, Danyal Aziz from Boston University, Bilawal Bhutto from Oxford, Naveed Qamar from California state University, Sherry Rehman from University of Sussex, Sughra Imam from Harvard

Being based in some foreign country doesn’t entitled you to comment on ground realities of some other country … first come and live in your own country and then comment on any politics or situation related to “Pakistan”.

@Khalid Javed:
Since the inception of Pakistan( choose any date between the invasion of Sind by Ibn-i-Qasim and formation of Muslim League more than hundred years ago) why Muslims of Sub Continent have been coerced by rhetoric to follow some particular leader as he/she (Ms Jinnah) is their Last Hope.
Never make an individual indispensible, because his removal from the scene shatters the hopes of millions. God forbid if anything happens to great IK, will Pakistan evaporate.
Be cool and rational, and remember that strong ideas have inexhaustable supply of oxygen whereas strong persons have limited supply of oxygen.

great article. its sad to see the IK brigade attacking anyone who dares to criticise IK’s policies. None of them tries to answer the question that author raises, all they have to offer in reply is that IK is the only hope as he is better than others??? why don’t you guys provide facts to counter the issues author has raised. I agree with the author, it’s all about Imran Khan and hardly any Tehreek e Insaaf. I would like to vote for Tehreek e Insaaf not Imran Khan. For a person who constantly talks about systems and institution building, IK spends too much time in promoting himself.

Guys this is getting ridiculous, it is a desperate attempt of the media to shutter the doors on Imran Khan. In every article I have read they have to dig so deep to get some dirt on Imran, while our current and potential others have dirt on their faces. In the US the same thing happens, the candidate that the media wants elected gets all the attention, not once even though he is really close to the top, do they acknowledge Ron Paul. Imran is probably most comparable to him, policies make sense but he is unelectable.

Brother I agree with you on writers comment on Akora Khattak. Its a generic problem with analysts that their knowledge about KPK, and its socio-political fabric and local stimulus for extremism is very limited, and this not only includes the experts from west but also based in Lahore, Islamabad or Karachi as well.

As a whole i agree with the writer about PTI on most points. these must be addressed. It was refreshing to read something where writer tried to be factual and empirical rather than relying simply upon rhetorical bashing. good job Ayesha. hoping to read something on PPP and PMLN as wellRecommend

A very sensible and objective analysis of Imran’s politics. Those who are critically viewing Imran’s performance as a politician are not his enemies rather his well wishers. In order to succeed in politics and be able to deliver is not an ordinary job. Imran frequently quotes cricket whe he expresses his views on the burning issues of the country and it is pity that he is still not able to differentiate between politics and cricket. Intelligentsia of the country wishes Imran’s success, however it is a fact that he is not a mature politician, he has no well contemplated programme and also without a team.

I believe the assets question needs to be addressed more clearly, although it is well-known that the form asks for only the “cost of acquisition” rather than the present value. You could have mentioned that… The PTI reps are actually new to the media (most of them) and so it’ll take some time for them to match up with our experienced spin doctors from other parties.

I don’t understand why PTI fans always think that their opponents are the paid agent. This is the loser mentality at its worst. Only immature minds support Imran Khan. They are taking politics as fashion. they want to try something new like the trends of fashion industry.
Every sensible person can see that imran Khan is lying with consistency. He always plays blame game. A person who has never run even a constituency, how can he run a country.

I know PTI fans will start to abuse me as well but I am used to that now but that increases my hate for Imran Khan as he is responsible for the bad language of his fanatic followers. Shame on Imran Khan..

Pakistan needs an experience politician who is corruption less, who has a proven track record of achievements. Its not the time to experiment with our country. Imran Khan has always been swinging in the extremes, some times he is on this extreme & other he is onto the other. This kind of behavior is extremely poisonous for running the matters of state.
One more thing that IK’s popularity is just a balloon which will be burst in a short time.

I want to advise IK’s supporter to have one thing in mind. Don’t fly too high, you have to have a margin of such defeat in the next general elections that PTI will not win even a single seat.
Cheers..

@Abbas from the US: (If I was a Shia I would be very hesitant to commit my vote to Imran and PTI just for the fact that Imraan chose the madrassah which gave birth to the Taliban movement.)

Dear Abbas be rational. Madrassah Akora Khattack has nothing to do with Anti Shia sentiments. There was never any allegation of such kind against this institution. Further wrong deeds of any student cant be leveled against institution. If we go with your logic, Hamburg University Germany might be penalized for the actions of its student Muhammad Atta, the architect of 9/11 and Harvard University can be accused for killings of innocent people around the world because of its student George W. Bush. So hope you got it.

Also Mullah Umar never attended Madrassah Akora Khattack. so where is the point :)Recommend

Well here is a situation, we have a leader in the name of Imran Khan who is the head of a political party, and peoples have high expectations from this man. They talk about change of all sorts in the government and its norms. They will end corruption, reduce poverty, control inflation, counter terrorism, eliminate energy shortages, reduce or get out of debt burden and many many more. The question arises HOW? Peoples are expecting all this from a man with a background of cricket, who was once elected as MNA and was never even close to the functions of government. Governments run on actual realities not on dreams. there are stakeholders at every step. One group benefits at the expense of other,s loss. I remember 3 to 4 years back, Imran Khan was invited in program of PTV named “HOT SEAT”. The anchored asked the same “HOW” and Imran Khan was puzzled and at the top of that became furious while calling the anchor dumb. Their is a huge difference between dreaming and implementing.

Ms living-in-england Author!! Why don’t you come back to Pakistan, start a political party, and do whatever you think is lacking in PTI?

We, the supporters of PTI, are not living in dreams, and the some glitches in PTI are the proof that we are in real world. But we want to go forward and make it better. The allergic-to-optimism and prone-to-cynicism just cant get it.Recommend

why is our youth so extremist that the author’s point of view is even not given a right place, she may be right or wrong but she has presented concrete facts, people should reconsider their priorities. I still think imran khan is a very good option but internally i feel that imran khan/PTI is actually Jamat-e-Islami in tuxedo

Many of the points raised and pondered are really important. Yes its very true that PTI is; in fact has gained lot of favor by so positively saturated lectures and plans but the question still remains there..would they be implemented and OK so they are sincere Are they even politically practical in Pakistan.. Are there any politically sensible cabinet members in PTI….so would people again go for PPP, PML etc and let them play the same roles we have been watching them playing since we opened our eyes… In spite of all these worrying things people and importantly youth have no other options to even try… so we are with Imran Khan in a very desperate hope for a postie change…May Allah show us the very bright effects of our expectations…

@Abbas from the US: Dear Abbas: A few corrections here are warranted: That madrassa did not give rise to the Tabs but many of its members are associated with it.that does not mean u cannot canvas for support as many of its students are from FATA (just to remind u that its patron,Maulana Sami ul Haq leads a different political party so making a jalsa wouldnt make a difference).
second point: I dare you to prove that Tabs killed any Shia in Mazari-Sharif. The story is that Abdul Malik Pahlawan, a warlord drove Dostum out of Mazar after which he invited TAliban.He expected the TAbs to give him governorship of Mazar but they did not so he trapped them and massacred about 2000 of them in Mazar. Some months later the Taliban regrouped and captured Mazar, during which the unfortunate incident of killing of 9 Iranian diplomats occured.
I am not sure where u came up with a figure of 50000.Please do some research Recommend

@Ali:
to all those who insist that the PML(N) and PPP have had ‘enough chances’: did these parties ever have an uninterrupted term without military interference in foreign and domestic issues, besides conniving to dismember these parties? political parties evolve and learn through the democratic process which takes TIME. when will we mature to the demands of the democratic process and stop pinning our hopes on overnight messiahs? wasn’t the musharraf experience enough? no wonder we go around in circles, because we simply refuse to learn.

We know that imran has some shortcomings but he is the only hope for us….he need electable ppl to come into the power politics…. i personally believe that he can bring the change. we should analyse the fact that…y he stepped into politics??? he need fame?? answer is NO..he was already famous as we all know…Does he need money??? a big NO again because he could have been more rich if he otherwise join cricket related affairs…Only reason of his decision is to bring change in Pakistan.. and for that very reson i am with him and we all should support his cause.

now pakistani media is critcizing imran’s pti for letting shah mehmood in… in case if SMQ joins pml n then they will once again criticize IK for being rude…. its your right u can criticize imran but change in pakistan is destined only through imran khan and his political party pti….

Hmmm…. ok …. not bad…. Most of the points are nothing but a constant repetetion of a particular view point of our English e-media.
But with the last part, i agree 100%. Khan really needs some charsimatic speakers on TV.

Will baised, I still don’t understand that when Ik was alone every body was telling no big wigs in PTI. Now when experience persons from other party is coming you called them turncoats. If other than these politician coming u say no experience one is in PTI. For Imran is the only person who is the hero of masses remove Imran khan from PTI u will find it empty coz this is the start. When u say about IK visit to china to take experience dosnt mean to copy and paste from china. It means that, that experience will be used according to Pakistani culture. At least he is the only one who seeks some thing from others. Recommend

“but what disappoints me is the lack of research and historical perspective in trying to achieve this noble objective.” What historical perspective are you refering to? In my flawed country there never was such a thing called historical perspective or for that matter a political one, people here only follow and swallow the myths and unfortunately we have no dearth of them since these are created by the dozens everyday. The requisites in a politcal leader, you are alluding to are a necessity in a mature political system where people are educated and are well aware of their civic duties and rights. You are well aware of our plight we are nation at a dump and Imran Khan with all his faults and frailities still offers a much better choice than the rest of the crowd.
Ms Khan I greatly admire your writing skill and the way you choose your words, but when comes to speak on the political leadership of the country whether present or past you seem to have, I strongly suspect may be sub-consciously an axe to grind against Imran Khan. A writer of your status needs to be much more fair and unbiased.

Excellent article. As predicted, all these passionate supporters of PTI have levelled accusations without addressing the points that have been raised by Ayesha. They are riding a high tide of hope which will undoubtedly smash them on shores of pessimism.

My dear PTI supporter! wishful thinking can never bring about a change, only meticulous planning and preparation can! PTI lacks both. It is just another party like PPP and PML. Now it is stuffing every other ‘conventional politician’ in it. Someone with a known history of working within the system joins PTI and becomes part of its CEC. Just think for a while, does IK possess a magic wand or will he make these new entrants bathe in ganga??? These politicians have born and been bred in this system: corruption, nepotism, illegal profiteering, working for vested interests…all these run in their blood circulation, how will IK rid these megalomaniacs of these problems? How do we even know if he is not one!!!!

PTI supporters, carry on with your idol worship, brace yourself for a splash on shores of pessimism! In the meanwhile, I think, I should brace MYSELF for angry accusations :-)

i somewhat agree with the author…what i like about Imran khan is that he has managed to make the young generation want to do something for Pakistan…whether we can trust him with the running of the country remains to be seen

I don’t want to seem like on of the followers of Imran Khan here but i simply want to ask a question; if you don’t see Imran as being competent enough to run the country, who do you think is well worth it?? i would surely vote him. But at this moment of time and for past 16 years Imran and his PTI have proven themselves as being the only only resolution for the prosperous Pakistan. I aint see no one from any party educated enough to handle the matters diplomatically. Imran yet to face manier problem till he form the govt but rather than being hostile of this achievements we should appreciate him for successfully completing some of the greatest projects that non one could amagine about. I think we should atleast give him a chance to see if he is worth it rather then electing these corrupt, illiterate and dummy govt to come in power again and even distroy the remainings of the country. Thanks

PTI, or Imran’s supporters do not consider their opponents as paid agents,
How ever some individuals are always envious of others success, to the extent
that they would do what ever it may take, to put baseless allegations on them.
I see the same case is with you, and therefore you are a looser, and those like you
are loosers. Shame on you for your hostile and misleading comments, about those
who sincerely intend to mean well for Pakistan.

I happen to be a member of the Human Rights Watch and actively support its efforts to document the mass killings of civilians based on their religious beliefs as is today’s case of the Alawaite controlled government in Syria of the vast majority of Syrians opposing the government who happen to be Sunnis.

I have been recieving printed reports from HRW since the mid nineties of the Afghan Taliban participating in the cold booded killings and massacre of civilians, before HRW made available on line their reports on Afghanistan. The international media has well made aware of the case of both the Northern Alliance as well as the Taliban not respecting the rules of engagement in the civil war. But when it comes to reprisals against civilians and putting to death civilians of the ethnic Hazaras who were targetted merely because of their Shia beliefs there is significant evidence available thru human rights organizations of the Taliban excesses that were carried out in the rape of Mazar e Sharif.

It is the same ideology of the extremists Taliban that was given birth in the Dar ul Uloom Haqannia that currently the LEJ uses to repeatedly gun down Shia Hazaras in Baluchistan.

Well I loved the name “I Khan” by a commenter. That really portrays what the author is trying to say here. However, we are aware that Imran Khan might be a slight better in the flock of worst but we shouldn’t be in such a charisma in relation to him where we can’t even talk about his accountability or question his credibility. Any revolutionizing formula can’t work for our country if we go with the rhetoric blindly and not analyzing the ground facts . Things will gradually get worse and this time the worst probably if people elect him without questioning him. “I Khan” may confront every national policy with the “I say Policy” and conclusively a disaster can happen just because of the immature and heavy support. The author isn’t asking to hate him. She is just tying to develop such sense where we can judge a person before electing him.
I’m not against him yet but I’ll definitely have another look before voting for “I Khan”.Recommend

Well written article, I am sick of hearing that this Mr. So & So will save Pakistan. I am also sick of general talk instead of telling precisely of what are your plans to improve current system. In fact, he should request the current government to assign him a department where he can show that he is skilled to improve they system.
I am worried that why do we even talk about a person who has been alive just in media and who had to gamble to pay off his election debt. A person who can’t keep the finances straight for his own party how can he deal with finances at a national level.

I haven’t seen any one yet crtisizing Imran at the same time providing an alternative for the next govt to be. Of course PTI is not an ideal party by any means but I think it’s better then the present lot.Also the example in the last para about defending a party on a talk show is senseless. One doesnt make policies based on a talk show program and not every one is a good speaker …

The article is quite well-balanced. However, numberous responses prove the immaturity of Imran Khan’s under-19 team. He has been considered as an autocrat and his contemporaries and former team-mates like Abdul Qadir are a witness to that.

Imran Khan has been pleading other people to live a simple life and give zakat & donations for his Shaukat Khanum Hospital but he himself spends a lavish lifestyle and tarvels abroad quite frequently. He has a luxurious mansion in the suburbs of Islamabad. Shouldn’t he be asked to clearly disclose the source of this lavish lifestyle and confirm under oath that none of this money is from zakat, charity or donation?

Shaukat Khanum laboratory (on which Imran Khan boasts his success) was sealed due to overcharging from dengue patients in Lahore. They were charging Rs 360/- per test against the standard rate of Rs 90/- per test. Imran Khan had also moved to Lahore High Court (LHC) against sealing of laboratory and the Court advised him to reduce the cost instead of fleecing the patients. Was it a fair market practice of Imran Khan?

His political team is tainted. Now he is patronizing Mian Azhar. But Mian Azhar is the same turncoat who defected Nawaz Sharif and joined General Musharraf. He was the founder of PML-Q to prove his allegiance to the former dictator, though he was himself dishonored in 2002 elections. Imran Khan’s candidate in NA-55, Mr Ijaz Khan “Jajhi” is known to be a hardened criminal and a notorious gangster. While criticizing others should he take an oath that he will never accomodate a political turncoat?

Imran Khan has made Sardar Faiz Tamman a member of his party. Faiz Tamman, a former MNA from NA-61, had to quit due to his fake degree. Is it a revolution to break the “status quo” by bringing fake degree holders into your party?

Imran Khan stays away from Karachi ever since he was expelled by MQM in May 12, 2007. He was thrashed by Babar Ghori and Wasim Akhtar in various tv talk shows and has never dared to challenge MQM ever since. His tone towards MQM has taken a U-turn.

When the trial of Pakistani cricketers came on Pakistani media, Imran Khan while agreeing to illegality of “match-fixing” claimed on TV that “spot-fixing” is legal and is widely practiced. Shouldn’t he swear in public that he has himself never been involved in these unethical practices?

A leader has to present himself for accountabiulity before raising the hackneyed slogan of “change”.

This country is now set to be liberated by this 20-something army under the flag of PTI. We are tired of ugly faces of plunderers & looters & wont allow anyone to demotivate us . Join us in Karachi on 25th December .

IK might not have the best team (certainly better and clean than others) but atleast have a will to implement their agenda. The rest of the lot has been in power for a number of years and despite their acumen have failed us miserably in all realms of governance.

Dear writer you have such deeply analyzed Ik and pti and tried your best
to malign it but the question is why IK!..If u start analizing other parties with
such passion i think you would be able to produce thousand books against
their curruption, plunders and blunders please let us live with this last
hope of change and if you have any option to vote for pleas tell us, we
know that IK is not an angel but we also know that he is much better
than anyother leader…thanks..

Again a fabricated article. Firstly, have you ever given property tax? do you think it is given or market rate? go do some research. have baked cookies only give a bad stomach ache. And regarding interviews and attitude in media, have you ever researched tv interviews with Nawaz Sharif, Zardari, Musharaf or Gilani? please again do some research. You know how US threatens to bomb North Korea and Iran. Self respect is what this nation needs (i hope you are loving the “memo” right now). Oh btw Wikileaks said your US official said IK was the only politician who wasnt shoe polishing them.Recommend

@Fasiha, you say, you’ll not vote to IK but to PTI….strange. So it means you will vote for people like Mahmood Urrasheed, Ejaz Chauhdry, Mian Azhar, Abdul Aleem Khan, Farooq Amjad Meer, Shahid Akram Bhinder, Aftab Khan, Jazy Khan, Zaheer Abbas Khokhar and tens of tunrcoats of PMLQ to name a few?Recommend

when Karan thapar asked him to denounce JuD and Hafiz Saeed for their acts of terrorism….he responded very cowardly….look i live in pakistan….where recently a governor was murdered in broad daylight…in such a scenario there is no sense trying to become a hero…lawlessness…nobody is safe in this country….etc etc……Before this interview after 3ist oct rally …i really thought he might be the man …this nation waited for long…..alas….he took no time to disillusion people like me…..sad……….

Please do some research on Accounting laws. He is right to lecture on those laws because assets are shown by the purchase price unless there are other specific conditions related to specific kind of assets.

The 20-something youth whose opinion you have so blatantly discounted know a thing or two about education.

You’ll need to work harder, gone are the days when you can sell empty rhetoric and fiction.

” big on generalisations but omitting to grill him on any specific plans”

this is why no one likes fake liberals….many PPP and PMLN spokesperson also come on the media, and they never give specifics , so why do you expect PTI to ? PTI has principles and you know PTI will deliver…if you want to know policies on everything , thats not going to happen

as for foreign policy, yes Friends not masters…the difference is Ayub Khan continues client state status and didnt follow his own advice

“too tightly run by the bosses”
at least its not a family party and accepts difference of opinion

in all Parties in Westminister system, the leader has complete control of policy…this is not presidential system where president has one policy and congress a different set of policies

*Can You name 10 people from PMLN or JI or any other opposition party ?…exactly so dont expect double standards….Imran Khan is leader of PTI, but PTI is still less cult based than MQM or PMLN….why such double standards ? the real reason media does not like him is because he is not a fake liberal….as for accounting principles even a 5 year old knows value of property increases and does not stay the same…as for china model…IK has talked about turkey and Malayasia as well, but u dont care…and yes IK was impressed by china family planning and education system, and he will learn from it …patriotism is good and beeing part of change movement feel good is also brilliant so dont down play it, we trust IK to make the right decisions *

Imran Khan knows how to convert dreams into realities! Time will tell! Pakistan is finally blessed with a true leader so we should take it positively! PTI is giving us a leader to run the helm of affairs diligently, honestly! If you compare him with present lot you will find him thousand times better than others. He is a gift of God for the people of Pakistan and inshalla with people support he will deliver because he truly loves Pakistan and feel proud to be a Pakistani and a true patriotic citizen of Pakistan.

Imran Khan knows how to convert dreams into realities! So just wait and see! Pakistan is blessed with leader like Imran khan. He is gift of God to the people of Pakistan. If you compare him with the present lot he is thousand times better !.

America is in a very different place 10 years after the war started. None of its original allies are with it, India, Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, all want them to leave the region and let trade flourish. As far as his assets are concerned, its very simple, the original/purchase price is the price written in all documents, and not the present value.

We can not impose any foreign model in entirety but we can use relevant parts. We can use the Chinese model to end corruption and not adopt the one-child policy or curbing religious sentiment. Did Imran ever say we will adopt the Chinese model completely??

Imran promised to bring together Shias and Sunnis in Peshawar in April and in May he was sitting with Sunni and Shia leaders together in Karachi.

Mirza Sahib is right in saying “We idolize personalities and not ideas. Imran Khan knows this fully well and is not giving any detailed program with timeline and resources. “I am a good clean man and would take care of all your problems”, is the easy way out.” We have done same with every army General when he came to power. We thought he will resolve all our problems with a magic wand. Now please be careful to choose.

‘Join Imran’, not ‘join PTI’ is what I hear from many of his supporters.

Atleast its better than naming the whole party on an individual’s name .. Kindly ask them to re-name the ‘Nooon League’ into something else. What has Nawaz Sharif done to command such an honour and respect? Nothing!

Imran on the other hand has stayed out of politics and made us all proud, time and again. With such an impressive track record, I’m sure he can do wonders if given a chance.

And I completely trust Imran with his team, he clearly said that he would have two different teams – one for the politics and the second one to run the country. Its important to understand that winning elections is alltogether a different ball game, which I guess Imran has understood now. And running the country has to managed differently, by technocrets and educated people who are professionally qualified.

Today we see Education Ministers who have hardly qualified themselves to get a decent degree, how are they to manage such a huge responsibility.

All the political leadership, too, should debate all other party leaders so that voters are able to compare party manifestos, specific plans and leadership acumen. All the political leadership should appear in front of public and should answer the public questions. I had seen Imran Khan to answering the public questions in many TV programs but I hadn’t seen Mian Nawaz sharif, Asif Ali Zardari, Altaf Husain, Ch. Shajat Husain etc. Are they all not so eligible to answer the public’ s questions? Can they not face the public?

Why do we have to be so emotional about everything. Imran Khan is to the Youth what any Wadera Politcian is to his Villagers. The writer has posted her own opinion about certain matters that she thinks PTI should handle in a better way and they are good arguments. I find this to be very constructive criticism and PTI can look into these matters and make themselves an even stronger party.

One more thing i see people commenting “If give have given ABC so many chances then why not give Imran Khan a chance” why not give yourselves a chance and do the best you can do yourselves for the country. If every individual does his/her own part then we wont have to give chances to anyone anymore. In a wise mans words “Every nation gets the leader it deserves.”

P.S. I will vote for the person in my constituency who in my opinion has the best interest of that constituency and the country at heart.